Barbs A 5s Early Autumn Weeks 2-3 Report

Coming into this week’s games, we were in serious danger of relegation, after losing 4-2 to Afrika Reds and 6-2 to Napolimania in Week 2. Fatigue was a factor in both losses, as we started with just five men and, depsite a sixth player showing up in the middle of the first match, never really had the legs to keep up with our opponents. It could have been worse, but we got a lot of help up front from new guy Aubrey.

This Thursday we ended up playing France only; Sinocamps.com, who appear to have given up on this season, forfeited the second match. The French pressured us from the beginning, but we made the most of our opportunities and found ourselves up 2-1 at the half. In the second half, our defense fell apart somewhat, and we were saved many times by Keith’s efforts in goal, as well as by two France shots off the post. Having seven men (including new guy Michael) helped a lot, though, and in the end we held on for the 2-1 victory.

The 6 points we earned this week gives us 9 heading into the final week against Russia. With Oguzkhan below us at 3, we will definitely avoid relegation. There’s still plenty to play for, though: A win against Russia (currently at 9 points as well) will put us in fifth place for the season, and with France and Afrika Reds both at 10 points, some favorable results in the other matches could push us even higher.  

Week 2 lineup: Adam, Aubrey, Dave, Jemal, Keith, Spiros

Week 3 lineup: Adam, Aubrey, Bujar, Dave, Keith, Michael, Spiros